Our very first anodized part has got me looking to solve each of the issues we encountered like any good engineer would. This thread is about the leaking caused by these not-through threaded holes.
I read early that we may need to plug threaded holes, and this is a clear example of why.
Since i’m trying to “make” as many of our own solutions as possible i went asking ChatGPT for which FDM 3d printer filaments we could use to print our own plugs. This would allow us to design plugs anyway we need to make it work.
After a lot of explaining it’s settled on Polypropylene as the best choice.
Polypropylene (PP) — if your printer supports it.
HDPE or machined PTFE — for the most durable and reusable plugs.
Nylon (PA12) — for quick jobs if acid exposure is minimal.
Great thing is we have X1 printers which definitely support PP printing.
Push Plastics doesn’t sell this (at least on their website) so I headed over to amazon and found something perfect:
While examining this product… i also found a specialized glue to help with adhesion of PP filaments: MPP2018 3D Printer Adhesive Glue for Polypropylene Filament - Long-Lasting & Reduces Warping on Flex Plate, Glass, PEI, Buildtak, Kapton - 3D Printing Accessories, Tools or Supplies (50ml): Amazon.com: Industrial & Scientific
Interestingly enough… this particular filament happens to also be food-safe. This would be perfect for making cookie cutters and other food-related prints but i’ll play with that later.
First things first… making some M3, M4, and M5 threaded plugs.